Hong Kong Customs yesterday (November 5) seized about 0.84 million sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $2.2 million and duty potential of about $1.6 million at Man Kam To Control Point and arrested a man.

Customs officers intercepted an incoming truck declared to contain ceramic tiles at Man Kam To Control Point yesterday. After thorough inspection, Customs officers found about 0.84 million sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes among ceramic tiles in 271 boxes on board the incoming truck. The 46-year-old male truck driver was arrested and the vehicle used for conveying the suspected illicit cigarettes was detained. The case is still under investigation.

Under the Import and Export Ordinance, smuggling is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities by calling the Customs’ 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.